First impressions

Ever since that first run in them around a German forest close to the Adidas global headquarters, we’ve been fans. In the past, Adidas may have been regarded as a firmer type of shoe, but these definitely feel a little bit more forgiving - firm but with a competitive cushioning system that offers the kind of response and protection you need for an everyday shoe. Off-road isn’t an issue - all but the worst conditions are comfortably tackled, but where it really comes into its own is on the road. ‘Workhorse’ is a phrase all too often misused but you won’t be unhappy with the way this shoe gets on with things.

Midsole

This is an area where Adidas has made huge advances in recent seasons. Shock absorption has long been the name of the game for adiprene, which is a lightweight foam that feels soft under your feet. More importantly, it doesn’t break down quickly so the shoe will last a season or two. And, of course, today no Adidas shoe is worth its salt if it doesn’t include the boost technology which if you haven’t experienced sounds a bit far-fetched, but take it from us, does at least to appear to work! Basically, the TPU pellets used in the midsole fire you along the road - literally putting a spring in your stride. Boost absorbs impact energy and returns it with interest! It sounds a bit fanciful, we agree, but they do feel good, which I guess is part of the battle.

Upper

If these shoes were rigid and unforgiving that really would be news - however, these are as you’d expect: flexible and allow your feet to sit in the upper perfectly. Formation Mesh is the Adidas version of this technology and it works well - no blisters, no rubbing. Fit around the heel can be a bit an issue for me, but no issues here. Memory foam helps with the fit and there’s no slippage - not even when it was wet. These runs were treated to plenty of warmer runs and breathability wasn’t an issue either. All in all top marks for the shoe in this department.

Sole

This is a nice, lightweight compound, fully at home on pavement. Indeed, the Adiwear compound used is a real favourite in our tests given its durability. As you’d expect from a shoe that performs so well, grip is great. Okay, hands up we didn’t take them into severe mud, but for wet road, grass and parks, they’ll do the job.

Conclusion

For anyone looking for an everyday shoe, the Supernova fit the bill. It’ll take you round a marathon, through the local park or on the road for a steady long run. They are really comfortable, have fantastic cushioning and do everything well. What more do you want from a daily trainer?!